Family Law

Child Protection Services

Protecting Kentucky's children. With 1,000+ Guardian Ad Litem appointments, we understand both sides of child welfare.

If a child is in immediate danger, call 911

To report suspected abuse or neglect in Kentucky, call the Child Protection Hotline:1-877-KYSAFE1 (1-877-597-2331). Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Protecting Kentucky's Children

Experienced child welfare representation

Child abuse and neglect cases are among the most serious matters in family court. Whether you're a parent facing an investigation, a relative seeking custody of a child in danger, or simply unsure how to help a child you're worried about, you need an attorney who understands both the law and the stakes.

Attorney Rene Heinrich has been appointed Guardian Ad Litem in over 1,000 cases by Kentucky courts, meaning she's trusted to represent the interests of children in the most difficult cases. This unique perspective informs every child protection case we handle.

Child Protection Services

How we can help

Reporting Abuse

Understanding when, how, and what happens after reporting suspected child abuse or neglect in Kentucky.

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CPS Investigations

Understanding your rights and options when facing a Child Protective Services investigation in Kentucky.

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Child Removal

Representation for parents facing dependency, neglect, or abuse petitions in Kentucky family court.

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Termination of Parental Rights

Defending against or pursuing termination of parental rights when children's safety requires permanent solutions.

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Protective Orders for Children

Obtaining emergency protective orders and domestic violence orders to safeguard children from abuse.

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Guardian Ad Litem

Understanding the role of a Guardian Ad Litem and how this court-appointed advocate protects children.

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Recognizing Warning Signs

Know what to look for

Recognizing the signs of abuse or neglect is the first step in protecting a child. If you notice these warning signs, it may be time to seek help.

Physical Abuse

Unexplained bruises, burns, or injuries
Injuries inconsistent with explanations given
Fear of going home or being around certain adults
Flinching at sudden movements
Wearing clothing to hide injuries

Neglect

Consistently dirty or inappropriate clothing
Untreated medical or dental problems
Frequently absent from school
Always hungry or hoarding food
Left unsupervised for extended periods

Emotional Abuse

Extreme behavior changes
Withdrawal from friends or activities
Age-inappropriate behaviors
Low self-esteem or depression
Delayed emotional development

Who We Represent

Every perspective matters

Parents Facing Allegations

Being accused of child abuse or neglect is terrifying. A CPS investigation can upend your life, threaten your family, and damage your reputation, even when allegations are false or exaggerated.

Defense against CPS/DCBS investigations
Representation in dependency proceedings
Fighting wrongful termination of parental rights
Reunification planning and advocacy

Children & Protective Relatives

When a child needs protection, time is critical. Whether you're a grandparent, aunt, uncle, or other concerned relative, we help you take action to safeguard children from harm.

Emergency custody petitions
Protective orders for children
Relative placement advocacy
Guardian Ad Litem representation

Why Choose The Heinrich Firm for Child Protection

Experience that matters

1,000+ Guardian Ad Litem Appointments

Courts trust us to represent children because we always put their welfare first.

Trauma-Informed Approach

We understand the sensitive nature of abuse cases and handle them with care.

Both Sides Experience

We represent parents defending against allegations and children needing protection.

Protecting Children

Dependency, custody and adoption results

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Dependency, Neglect & AbuseNorthern Kentucky

20+ Years of DNA Court Experience

Represented thousands of parents, grandparents, fictive kin, and children in Dependency, Neglect and Abuse Courts.

Built insider contacts with CHFS social workers, school administrators, therapists, prosecutors, and police. Successfully reunited families, protected children, and aided recovery.

“We are so grateful for the outstanding representation we received from Rene Heinrich of The Heinrich Firm in our juvenile case.…”

Cara Stewart, Google review

Child CustodyNorthern Kentucky

Mother Obtains Protective Orders

Unmarried mother separated from child's father needed protection and stability.

Obtained orders for school location, parenting schedule, and prohibited contact with harmful individuals.

“The Heinrich Firm (Rene and her team) are the best family / custody / divorce lawyer in Campbell County! I would not hesitate to recommend them.”

Alex Fitzer, Google review

Contested AdoptionNorthern Kentucky

Drug-Positive Newborn - Multiple Appeals

Couple contracted to adopt child born drug-positive with severe health issues. Abusive biological father later came forward.

Successfully navigated multiple court actions and appeals. Child now happily adopted in loving, nurturing home.

“Our family came to the Heinrich Firm during a really hard time in our family. The loss of my sister. We needed help with a contested adoption of my nephew. She and her staff was there for us through the whole process.…”

Mandy Long, Google review

Read the full story

Past results don't guarantee future outcomes. Each case is unique. Client quotes are excerpts from the firm's public Google reviews, matched to the type of case, not to the specific case shown.

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Common Questions

Understanding child protection law

What happens when CPS/DCBS comes to my home?

When the Cabinet for Health and Family Services receives a report, they must investigate within timeframes set by law. You have the right to refuse entry without a warrant, but this may escalate the situation. An attorney can help you understand your rights and guide your response.

Can my children be taken away based on an anonymous report?

CPS must investigate all reports, but cannot remove children without evidence of imminent danger or a court order. Many investigations are closed without action. However, you should take any investigation seriously and consider consulting an attorney.

What is a dependency case?

A dependency case occurs when the state alleges a child is abused, neglected, or dependent and seeks court involvement. This can range from court-supervised services while children remain home to removal of children to foster care.

How can I get my children back after they've been removed?

Reunification requires completing a case plan created by the Cabinet. This may include parenting classes, counseling, substance abuse treatment, or other services. An attorney can advocate for reasonable timelines and help you demonstrate compliance.

What is a Guardian Ad Litem?

A Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) is an attorney appointed by the court to represent the child's best interests, not either parent. Attorney Rene Heinrich has been appointed Guardian Ad Litem in over 1,000 cases by Kentucky courts and understands how courts evaluate child welfare.

Can I be charged criminally for child abuse?

CPS investigations are separate from criminal investigations, but information can be shared. If you're facing both a CPS investigation and criminal charges, you need an attorney immediately. What you say in one proceeding can affect the other.

Let's Talk

Ready to Discuss Your Family Matter?

Whether you're starting an adoption journey, facing a divorce, or need guidance on custody matters, we're here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Call Now

859-291-2200

Visit Office

800 Monmouth Street, Newport, KY 41071

admin@nkylawfirm.com

Serving Campbell, Kenton, Boone, Grant, Pendleton Counties, with state-wide service available

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